The Effect of Sportive Life Satisfaction on Psychological Well-being: The Sequential Mediating Role of Voluntary Mind Wandering and Subjective Vitality

This study explores the impact of sportive life satisfaction on psychological well-being, investigating the mediating roles of voluntary mind wandering and subjective vitality. The findings confirm that sportive life satisfaction significantly enhances psychological well-being through direct and indirect pathways. Engaging in sports not only improves physical health but also plays a crucial role in promoting psychological wellness. The study identifies voluntary mind wandering as a key cognitive process that mediates the relationship between sportive life satisfaction and psychological well-being. Additionally, subjective vitality emerges as another significant mediator, reflecting individuals' cognitive and affective experiences of leading a balanced and healthy life. Sequential mediation analysis highlights that voluntary mind wandering and subjective vitality work synergistically to amplify the positive effects of sportive life satisfaction on psychological well-being. These findings underscore the importance of sports in fostering both physical and mental health, advocating for holistic approaches that integrate mental well-being strategies into athletic training and daily life. In conclusion, the findings demonstrate that sportive life satisfaction has a significant direct effect on psychological well-being and also influences it indirectly through voluntary mind wandering and subjective vitality, both independently and in a sequential manner.